Leadership: Special Edition
Abraham Lincoln
Recently I have been challenged on a number of occasions to re-visit my understanding of the word leadership. On that note I have something to share with you today. My definition of leadership is “The ability to attract, obtain and bring out the best in others”. I recognize everyone possesses their own definition of the word and according to John Maxwell, “Leadership is influence: nothing more nothing less.” I recall several years ago reading this information in one of his highly publicized books and today I continue to reflect on that phrase. I enjoy and thrive on the opportunity of conducting research on other well known leaders that are still alive today and one’s that have passed while leaving a legacy of executing marvelous deeds in the worlds most gut-wrenching of times. The link I provided you today is a document I composed some years ago in which I recently reviewed to regain a vision and true sense of leadership. The concept stems from an earlier posting in March called “The Carpenter” in which I elaborate in more detail and utilize well known authors to contribute to the piece. The metaphorical paper is called “Leadership is like Building a House“. In my opinion, this content will never be outdated and always serves a purpose for another to benefit for the remainder of their life. Click here to review and take advantage of the day!
Weekly Update: April 5 – 11
Decision-Making
Nolan, Alexis and I at St. Arman's Circle (Sarasota)
There is no better time then “Now” to make a decision to change for better in one or more areas of life. However; this will only take place by setting goals, executing a vision and getting out of your comfort zone to experience unchartered waters. Whether the goal is to loose fifteen pounds, run four miles instead of two everyday, or complete 30 pages of reading every single night before going to bed, I know achieving this goal will create a feeling so powerful that you can quickly gain momentum and take on something greater or more challenging to continue growing as a person.
I know the feeling because this past week I made tremendous steps to incorporate the ability to make clear, decisive decisions in a timely manner within my life. I recently recognized my inability to make decisions while engaged in friendly conversations. Now for most, you may be thinking, what is he talking about? To set the record straight let me give you a couple examples:
- If you had 3 places in the world to gain citizenship from where would they be?
- Making a decision to fast for 24 hours. Are you starting today or not? If not when?
- Will I workout in the morning or will I take the day off?
The last week or so I steadily gained information into my indecisiveness for making decision to what I would call “Little Questions” (Probably could define a better term). Let’s face it, these are not brainteasers and through some informative thinking I have become much more assertive and decisive in my decision making. More or less, I was occupied with the thoughts of providing answers to another friend, colleague or myself if that is acceptable. Forget that!!!! Let me tell you, those days are over. I do respect the opinion of others however; if you go through life trying to please everyone you may never reach your final destination that you had set forth. Stick to an agenda that you can balance and manage for the best interest of your goals, dreams and feelings. Continue to pull others along with you by influencing them with positive information and good choices where together you can achieve more.
Training
Training this past week has gone very well. I had laid a very good foundation to start the 2-week training camp and supplementing this with a healthy nutritional diet, I am on track to sustain optimum energy throughout the next couple of weeks in the office, during workout and for personal development. The yoga classes have been instrumental towards my ability to relax in the evening and really eliminate a lot of the clutter that an unhealthy work environment can provide. I do not have more insight on the Florida 70.3 nor the Great Floridian Triathlon at the end of October. I have diverted my attention to a possible half ironman distance at this time to ensure proper rest/recovery and training methodologies for Ironman Arizona in November. I will keep you up to speed. I am still searching for a marathon or two during the months of September and October. My initial thinking is the Akron marathon back home will be of interest which will have some good hills and possible winter like conditions to really test the body. I will keep you up to speed.
Weekly Update: March 27 – April 4
Jeremy Warner - One of the fastest 400M runners in the world
Every New Year’s Eve I spend time by myself developing the goals I will accomplish for the coming year. This time is invested wisely and allows me to reflect upon what goals I achieved in the previous year and how I can continue to find ways to challenge myself, raise the level and set the bar higher moving forward. Now I don’t spend all day reviewing this material rather I set time aside the week prior to begin formulating this plan. I break down every goal to the smallest fraction, this way at the end of the year I can measure my success and ultimately create a map for how the year should look before its even began. These goals are divided into 10 categories such as career development, recreational, financial, spiritual, physical, family, and community service.
One of my goals this year was to begin and implement Yoga in my schedule once a week. This past Monday I took the first steps toward attaining this mark and it was so good on Monday, I went back on Wednesday. I plan to incorporate this exercise into my weekly schedule 2x a week as it provides the necessary balance internally while eliminating external variables that I cannot control. I must say, Yoga is one of the most challenging movements I have ever done. One of the underlying reasons is my lack of flexibility. The breathing is OK however; attaining good posture, striking unique positions while controlling your breathing and holding these for a period of time requires great strength and a peaceful warrior state of mind.
Throughout the week I began to prepare for the 2-week training camp starting April 10th. Running some longer distance, getting the heart rate up, training at “over-heated” body temperatures, and incorporating some up tempo speed work with yoga in the evening, I believe there is a good foundation being laid. Today was a 45 mile ride with a good friend Nolan Sheldon, in the rural streets of Lakewood Ranch, FL which went very well. Tomorrow will be a similar ride of 45-50 miles and expect to ramp of the intensity the entire time. I haven’t taken a day off from working out in 9 days and I don’t foresee the next day until Wednesday, April 8th. I light jog and another one on the 9th will have me ready for the start on the 10th.
I am in the process of deciding to enter the Florida 70.3 on May 17th in Orlando and another event in Clermont, FL on October 24th. Both are very popular events in the triathlon world, which in my mind, provides a great experience before taking on Ironman Arizona at the end of November. I am in touch with a few triathletes, whose opinion I value highly and will need to make a decision in the next few days. One obstacle to overcome is the timing between the event in Clermont, FL and Arizona. This is an Ironman competition as well and in my opinion will be an awesome experience adding confidence for Ironman Arizona. This would be my first Ironman competition and having completed this one, with the goal to finish and make mental notes how I can become more efficient throughout the race, I would need to recover and prepare for the Arizona competition within 4 weeks. We’re talking 2 Ironmans in one month, having never accomplished one in my lifetime. It can be done…I have no doubts however; physically and mentally I am not sure how the body will react and there is no need to jeopardize the trip to Arizona. I look at it as a pre-season competition for the BIG event of the year. I’m on board however; there are experts with 10x more experience to draw on and seeking out that information will help with the final decision.
No Food = Thoughts
I am 5 hours away from achieving my goal of fasting for 24 hours. The time has passed very quickly and I am beginning to think why not go for all 36 hours. I have been drinking water periodically however; every time I take down a glass my body sends its signal that I am running on empty. Pretty cool. This morning I attended 9:30 church service and as I was walking through the parking lot back to my car, I started questioning myself, “Has this fast has been a positive experience. What have I gained throughout this process?” Immediately, faster than the speed of light, it was there. I realized something that had been oblivious to me for a period of time: I realized I am filled with energy and absolutely love life. This may sound simple yet very powerful and it leads me to believe there is something greater to share with you today.
Observing life in a larger perspective; I truly believe we are here to positively impact other people’s lives, influence good decision making and maximize the potential of every human being around you. Everyday we take for granted
Backpacking Europe: St. Andrews
there will be food on the table, have clothing to keep us warm, a shower to feel clean or a bed to sleep comfortably at night. Is this truly how we judge the day or dictate if one is living a prosperous and fruitful life? When you think about it, this is all “gravy on top”. These are what I call “Luxurious Comfortalities”. Items in which we could honestly do away with and still have it much better than most people do today or one’s that never experienced in this time period. When we analyze the underlying gifts we are blessed with: hearing, eye sight, smell, touch, etc…ask the question, “Can we make these the focus for celebrating a remarkable day?” So, we are unable to afford the new Plasma T.V or go out to dinner at Applebee’s that’s OK, we have everything we can possibly want and its up to us to make the decision we will make it a positive day, influence people’s lives and help other individuals accomplish what they want in life. Having fasted now for 19 hours I have gained a greater appreciation for the tangible items I possess however; I challenge you to re-evaluate what you truly value in life. What makes you tick?
Do you take great pleasure spending time with your family and maximize every moment with them or take it for granted you will see them in a week or next month? This applies not only to family but your friends, food, automobile, clothes, all your prized possessions. The time we possess is our most valuable possession and recognize we will NEVER get it back. So spend it wisely and enjoy the little things in life because they are the most important.
“Whatever the mind can conceive and believe; the mind can achieve” – Napoleon Hill
Raise the Level – 24 Hours
Raise the Level
Today at 5:00 pm I will start a 24 hour period of fasting. I will eat no food and only drink water. I have implemented a number of fasting exercises in the past however I never went past the 24 hour period. My goal is to increase a threshold to 36 hours of fasting, only drinking water and performing this once a month. Staying mentally tuned in to everything going on around you takes an unbelievable amount of effort and focus. I remember a quote from a good friend Ken Lolla, he said “At times when things aren’t going well and are difficult; your true character comes out as a person” and this has always stuck with me. So why I am doing this? Simply stated: To challenge my ability to maintain a positive attitude and embrace adversity. I possess a strong desire to test my mental physique and evaluate my ability to execute tasks throughout the day while maintaining a high standard with an abundance of energy. I am planning to eat some vegetables, and fresh fruit as my last meal.
2-Week Training Camp
The long awaited 2-week long training schedule in the month of April has been released. I had to strategically plan the correct volume, intensity and rest days throughout the schedule to gain maximum results and furthermore test my limits for upcoming training camps this summer and into the fall. I believe this test could not come at a better time where I am facing stiff competition from within. My completion of the Peaceful Warrior cleansing process while maintaining adequate nutritional needs for training has been a great challenge. Temptation to break this peaceful cleansing pattern has been scarce however; a true test to hold yourself accountable and at a high standard is the ultimate self-gratifying reward.
April 10: Run 7miles; Circuit Training – 45min
April 11: Bike 45miles; Run 8miles
April 12: Bike 40miles; Swim 30min
April 13: Run 8miles; Circuit Training – 45min
April 14: Swim 30min; Bike 30min (recovery)
April 15: Run 12miles; Curcuit Training – 45min
April 16: Rest; Bike 30min (recovery)
April 17: Run 14miles
April 18: Bike 45miles; Circuit Training
April 19: Bike: Incline/Hill training – San Antonio, FL
April 20: Run 6miles; Swim 30min
April 21: Swim 45min; Circuit Training – 45min
April 22: Run 14miles; Bike 35min (recovery)
April 23: Bike 1hr (LeMont) w/Run 35min incline (treadmill)
April 24: Run 5miles w/Circuit Training – 45min
April 25: Run 15-17miles
April 26: Jog 30min; Rest
April 27: OFF
Beginning the Peaceful Way
Akron Zips Soccer: Amico, Dino, Pablo, Me
This past week has been filled with positive movement towards my completion of Ironman Arizona in 10hrs 30min. Running 4 times this week over long distance and supplementing these workouts with afternoon training with our teams at IMG, the fitness level is acquiring a good foundation to begin increasing volume and the length at which I workout. I had a few requests from players asking to run with me on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings, so this will be another great opportunity to add more value in their overall fitness level as I continue to create a large base for my intense 2-week training series, set for April 10th -24th. Details on the event will be announced in the coming week.
Considering I put forth tremendous efforts every time I’m running, biking or swimming the nutrition that follows is not only key towards the recovery but most importantly begins fueling the body with nutrition for my next workout. I have decided to post a simple nutrition plan I took away for a book I read by Dan Millman called “The Way of the Peaceful Warrior” The value your body receives from eating these types of foods: Mind, Body and Spirit is refreshing, produces optimal energy, and creates a focus to raise the level and go beyond the call of duty. I am currently implementing this diet for the next month.
The Way of the Peaceful Warrior
No foods containing refined sugar, refined flour, meat, coffee, alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes.
- Breakfast: Fresh Fruit meal with occasional yogurt
- Lunch (Main Meal): raw salad, baked potato and whole grain bread or cooked grains.
- Dinner: raw salad and occasionally steamed veggies
- **Have raw unsalted seeds and nuts @ every meal
- **I will replace nuts/seeds with olive oil and vinegar on salads
I encourage you to participate. This may require you to come out of your comfort zone and eat foods that are rarely incorporated in your diet. It’s a great way to touch base with your inner-self and showcase your ability to overcome challenges and/or adversity. Make it a super day!
Brian Scheall makes History
Backpacking Europe: Dublin, Ireland
In an effort to manage time between career development, training, personal life, continuing education and relaxation, I have made history by officially launching my personal website: www.brianscheall.com. This interactive communication ritual will keep the entire world up to date on all the latest news in the career and life of Brian Scheall. Moving forward in my pursuit of greatness, to live the dream and leave a legacy that millions of people will benefit from, this website becomes a building block to reach a far greater audience globally.
It’s a duty of mine to impact the lives of others in a positive manner. The ability to add value to another individual’s life and make them a better person than when I first met them is the greatest gift you can give anybody. In the end, this is ultimately how we will be judged.
I encourage you to become familiar with the website and recommend it to others. I am confident as the content continues to stay fresh with new and exciting information you along with many others will be rewarded by installing similar principles in the lives of others. I will do my best to provide all the resources. All I ask from you is to absorb it, apply it and influence the lives of others.
The Time is Now, The Place is Here, This is the Moment – Socrates
The Carpenter
The Way of the Peaceful Warrior
An elderly carpenter was ready to retire. He told his employer-contractor of his plans to leave the house-building business and live a more leisurely life with his wife enjoying his extended family. He would miss the paycheck, but he needed to retire. They could get by.
The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor. The carpenter said yes, but in time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end his career. When the carpenter finished his work and the builder came to inspect the house, the contractor handed the front-door key to the carpenter. “This is your house,” he said, “my gift to you.” What a shock! What a shame! If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently.
Now he had to live in the home he had built none too well. So it is with us. We build our lives in a distracted way, reacting rather than acting, willing to put up less than the best. At important points, we do not give the job our best effort. Then with a shock, we look at the situation we have created and find that we are now living in the house we have built. If we had realized that we would have done it differently.
Think of yourself as the carpenter. Think about your house. Each day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall. Build wisely. It is the only life you will ever build. Even if you live it for only one day more, that day deserves to be lived graciously and with dignity. The plaque on the wall says, “Life is a do-it-yourself project.” Who could say it more clearly?
Your life today is the result of your attitudes and choices in the past.
Your life tomorrow will be the result of your attitudes and the choices you make today.
